How STEM projects make a better world

Science, Technology, Engineering, Math. (STEM) It's the very foundation of our modern world. Without
inventors, theorists, engineers and scientists, we'd still be living in the stone age, and the challenges facing
our world today make STEM skills even more important than ever. Hands-on experience with real-world
projects gives kids a kick-start on life too. It shows them that math and science are more than just abstract
equations on paper, they have applications in the real world that are exciting, fun and important. It gets the
kids outdoors, away from the TV and video games, and it is great mental cross training regardless of what
field of work they eventually go into. Our kids are the future, and smarter kids make a better future for
everyone. Help make a better world. Get a kid started with a STEM project today.

Two models in one! The Greek Ballista and the Roman Onager are both combined in this model kit. These
models are fully functional with working triggers and projectiles included. They really work!
$34.95 more info

The TK3 Trebuchet Model Kit is an ideal science project machine! Use the hanging counterweight bucket for variable weights, or convert it to a fixed counterweight machine, wheels, or no wheels. The choice is yours!
$79.00 more info

A fascinating machine that converts potential energy into kinetic and uses it to throw a ball, this machine is only 34 inches tall, 18 inches long and 9 inches wide (not including counterweights), but it hurls a golf ball over 200 feet.
$175.00 more info

This perfectly tuned miniature trebuchet is a beautiful addition to any desktop, and it really works! It takes up only 4" x 9" of desktop space and stands just 14" tall (7" at the axle).
$39.95 more info

Because the world needs good engineers and scientists, and because the kids who will grow up to become engineers and scientists need a way to get hands-on experience with physics, math and engineering.

In this age of 200-plus channels of TV, the Internet and computer games, kids are also spending far less time building tree houses, tinkering with engines, or designing downhill racers. We believe those are important skills to have. They help form the basis for good problem solving skills and an innate understanding of the real, physical world that you just can't get from a computer game, no matter how good its physics simulation software is.

Ballistic motion was one of the key players in the development of the science of physics. The word "engineer" even originated as the builders and designer of Siege Engines

Why is a budding engineering student expected to take a year or two of calculus in high school, but she isn't
expected to have any real-world experience in building or working with machines and materials? Pencil and paper
(or computer screens) are only one part of the learning experience. Where will she apply all of the stuff she
learned in geometry and trig? Without physical projects to touch, feel and see, the lessons become abstract,
their utility questionable.

A catapult project gives students a chance to see that science and engineering really can be fun, and it's a lot
more than just numbers on paper. The real payoff for an engineer is in the field, where she can see and enjoy the
results of her ingenuity. And it may seem counterintuitive, but engineering projects not only help kids learn math
and science, they are also great at getting kids back outdoors, away from the massive over-exposure to video games,
TV and the Internet.

Why all this interest in getting kids to study science and engineering? Because it's important to our society,
and it's great mental cross training regardless of what field of work the kids eventually go into. Most people
develop a sense for what they want to do in life while they are still in high school or even earlier.
A catapult project is fun and interesting enough to inspire some kids to study the science behind how they
work, and then go on to become the engineers and scientists of tomorrow.